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Showing posts from January, 2016

Medicare. Part A? Part B? Part D? Now I'm Officially Confused.

So here we are, as Dad's 18 months of COBRA come to an end, and his 2 year period on Social Security Disability approaches- which means Medicare coverage.  Actually, it means pure confusion.  COBRA can not be used with Medicare, as they are both federal programs. Ok, that I understand.  So we drop COBRA and Dad is automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A & B come April 1st. Ok. That sounds fine.  But apparently with Medicare, you need a supplemental insurance or a secondary insurance.  And with Medicare there is a Part D- Prescription drug portion.  So I've got Part A, Part B, Part D, Supplemental....and now my head hurts and I'm beyond confused.  Dad's treatments are expensive. VERY Expensive. When you're talking about $25,000 a month (without Insurance), which doesn't include blood work or doctor's appointments, or MRI's- you're talking expenses that just aren't feasible for anyone! So financially, we are trying to figure out our best ...

"I know the plans I have for you, and they are good." Dad Update 1/20/2016

I have to admit, I've been terrible about updating Dad's blog when things seem to be stable - so I apologize. But the good news is, when I don't update often, there is a GOOD chance that it means things are going well. And right now, that couldn't be more accurate.  After Dad's MRI in November, we were all thrown into this state of confusion, worry and sadness. We were concerned for the next treatment options, praying for Dad to feel better, and right back into the sadness that so many in the fight against cancer feel. We reached out for prayers. We asked anyone and everyone to pray for Dad. To pray for healing and comfort.  And the power of prayer took over. I can't explain WHY Dad's last MRI appeared better than his one in November, but what I can explain to others is the number of people thinking, praying and lifting us up during this time. When medically something can't be explained, it's always pretty easy for me to find where the real source of...

Run For The Rose 2016

We are just 3 short months away from our 3rd trip to the 'Run For The Rose'- a 5k in Houston supporting the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation and brain cancer research. In our last 2 trips we've helped raise over $16,000 and last year we had over 110 participants on team 'BTHO Brain Cancer- Lar's Fight'.  The Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation helps to fund research in Houston for many brain cancer patients, just like my Dad. They provide funding for clinical trials, and they provide support to so many families like mine. I've leaned on them numerous times with questions and concerns during Dad's fight- and each time they've provided guidance, comfort and support. I can't say enough wonderful things about the organization.  The 'Run For The Rose' really has something for everyone! Those of you who enjoy a little 5k, they have a nice course for you to run either timed or non-timed, and for those that want to enjoy a nice walk instead, you can walk the 5k...